The Desert Islands of Abu Dhabi

Desert Islands Abu Dhabi

The desert islands of Abu Dhabi, known as Jozor Al Sahra’a in Arabic, are an archipelago of eight islands which were envisioned by Sheikh Zayed, the founding father of UAE and were converted into reality thanks to his efforts. Comprising of Sir Bani Yas Island, Dalma Island and six discovery islands, they serve as home to some of the most cherished natural treasures of Arabia with landscapes sculpted by nature, indigenous animal species and mangroves. 

These islands are well connected with Abu Dhabi and it takes two and half hours from the capital city to reach Sir Bani Yas Island jetty having driven on the E11 highway and crossed the town of Ruwais en route. On arriving at the terminal in Jebel Dhanna a ferry takes people across to the Sir Bani Yas Island after a ride on the water lasting about 20 minutes and having reached the island the tour buses and chauffeur driven cars are responsible for the mobility.

Another quicker, easier and cheaper alternative would be to fly to the desert islands from Abu Dhabi in one of the many scheduled flights which depart from the Abu Dhabi International Airport and land at the airport on Sir Bani Yas Island.

The Desert Islands Abu Dhabi are another of the areas that are being marketed heavily as a natural, tourist destination as Abu Dhabi evolves to a life after oil and alongside Al Gharbia, the Desert Islands feature prominently in the future focus. One only need touch down at Abu Dhabi airport to see such marketing. In fact, no tourist would have even considered these islands as spots to visit.

The desert islands are meant serve as a haven for natural wonders and provide plenty of opportunities for water sports and adventure activities. When these islands were conceived, the intention of the creator was not only to conserve nature at its optimum but also to encourage its propagation so that it can be cherishes, valued and enjoyed by the forthcoming generations as well. Who would have thought that so close to the desert lands were such beautiful natural islands?

It is at these desert islands that intensive research work is evident aimed towards maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Some of the high points of the programmes include relocation of non-indigenous animals, monitoring of breeding programmes, removal of human interface from within the park, saving water and preventing its wastage and monitoring visitors throughout their activities on the islands.

Wildlife forms an important aspect of these islands and while Oryx, gazelle, deer, giraffe, sheep and cheetah constitute the land animals, dolphins, sea turtles and a variety of aquatic species reside in the waters and more than a hundred individual species of birds rule the roost. All these signs of life are supported by the tenacious flora which comprises of a number of different desert tolerant plants as well as mangrove forests.